. >> they do not have snow in washington yet like we have here in berlin to get into the christmas selling. >> but as the holidays draw closer, u.s. president barack obama and his family have lit the national christmas tree outside the white house. >> it is an annual tradition dating back to 1923. this year's giant blue spruce is new and will remain planted outside the white house throughout the year. the tree is lit by 450 strands of alley delights and 120 star ornaments. >> that looks like a fun party. >> beautiful christmas in the white house for sure. that is all we have run out. thanks for watching. >> do not forget, you can find more on our website at dw.de. see you soon. ????ovív"d